The amount of support that the Vermont State Fair has received over these last three or four months from the entire Rutland community has been the most uplifting and inspiring motivator as we attempt to breathe new life into our organization. I can tell you all from the experience of many, many long hours of volunteer effort that my entire board, though weary from meetings since February from 6 to 11 every week, is truly inspired by Rutlandís community spirit.

From the Rutland Heraldís graphics department to the efforts of the Chamber of Commerce and our own PEG TV, not to mention the spirit and dedication of our own membership and maintenance crew as the short staff has the grounds in as good a shape as I have ever seen them. Our Master Gardeners, battling the ever present woodchucks, have still managed to beautify our entire grounds. Thank you, thank you, thank you all. Because of all your efforts, we will have one of the best fairs we have ever seen in Rutland.

Anyone who truly wishes to help in a very meaningful way, I encourage you to come to the Mill Village Chapel, just off Route 7 north past the water tower, on this Tuesday, July 15, at 7 p.m. and help Joey Leone with the promotion and effort for the benefit concert and thank you all in advance.